These are challenging times, and lots of people are having to make tough decisions. Sadly, some of those decisions are negatively affecting our beloved pets: dogs are being left at shelters or abandoned on the streets more and more. Shelters everywhere are full of pets that have been given up or left behind. Some of this is because of the overall uncertainty we’re experiencing, but a big reason is that people are losing their jobs or fearing they will.
It’s really sad to think about, but some people believe they can’t take care of their pets anymore. This story I’m about to share with you perfectly illustrates this struggle. A man from Orlando, Florida was going through some tough financial times and reached a point where he couldn’t provide for his beloved pit bull, Lincoln, anymore.
Feeling desperate, he decided to tie Lincoln to his neighbor’s tree in the middle of the night. Along with this heartbreaking act, he left a note explaining his situation and begging the neighbor to take care of his baby:
“I am leaving to California to be with my mother and brother during this pandemic. Please take care of Lincoln or find him a good home. I trust you with my baby. I’m sorry.”
A volunteer named Mayson Jones stepped up and took Lincoln home, showering him with love and playtime. Despite missing his owner, Lincoln still had a wag in his tail and a playful spirit.Luckily, this sad story has a happy part. A woman named Melanie Anderson felt sorry for Lincoln and decided to take care of him until he finds a permanent home. He now loves going on boat rides and taking sunny naps with his foster family. Unfortunately, Lincoln’s situation is not uncommon. Shelters are having a hard time, and many dogs are being left behind or given up.